Answer: C. cadence
Explanation: ca·dence
/ˈkādns/
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noun
1.
a modulation or inflection of the voice.
"the measured cadences that he employed in the Senate"
synonyms: rhythm, tempo, meter, measure, rise and fall, beat, pulse, rhythmical flow/pattern, swing, lilt, cadency; More
2.
a sequence of notes or chords comprising the close of a musical phrase.
"the final cadences of the Prelude"
I would say b. I thin ki would choose that one.
To be reticent is to not reveal one's thoughts readily. In this case, it is the reticence of the author. The author does not reveal their thoughts readily. If the narrator or author refuses to do something, it is made known that he is doing something. The something here is him refusing. If he acts as if the situation is normal, I'd assume he is acting in such a way that would be nonreactionary of the actions from the provoker. I would safely choose the last option as sorrentino's exercising of authorial reticence.
I think the answer is Innocence but I am super sorry if that isn't the right answer